All-clement God, that know'st my honest Mind

Verse 1

All-clement God, that know'st my honest Mind; In thee from ill a sure relief I find; Oft in my sad distress, thou'st giv'n release; Again my soul implores her wonted peace; Benign, O listen to thy servant's pray'r; Have mercy on me, Lord, in pity spare.

Verse 2

Ye hapless sons of men, what frenzy sways? How long 'gainst me your calumnies you'll raise? How long indulge your vile malignant spite? How long in killing slanders take delight?

Verse 3

To your confusion know, the Godhead loves The man, who by his works his duty proves; Nor, when in humble guise I to him plain, Shall his obedient servant plead in vain.

Verse 4

Stand then, ye wretches, of his pow'r in awe Nor sin presumptuous 'gainst his sacred law; Reflect your actions in the silent night Your hearts will own you guilty in his sight,

Verse 5

The heedless many in vain riches trust, And hope, their pray'rs for opulence, are just: But I more happy, if thy light divine On my glad soul in it's full radiance shine;

Verse 6

More happy, thou, my only joy and hope, Than when the nectar sparkles in my cup; Than when with corn my granaries abound, And loaded olives croud the fertile ground.

Verse 7

Yes, my good God, I'll lay me down in peace; I'll sleep, devoid of care, secure of ease; Thou, only thou, canst dissipate my grief, From foes give safety, and from pain relief.